Students from the University of Évora participate in the PV&EC Winter School in Slovenia

Between January 27 and 31, a group of six students from the University of Évora participated in the PV&EC Winter School, an event held in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Ailton Tavares, Henrique Fava Rica, Jeremias dos Santo, Helena Oliveira e Joana Correia, scholarship holders at the Renewable Energies Chair of the University of Évora, participated in the PV & EC Winter School in Slovenia as part of a Blended Intensive Programme. Over the course of a week, participants engaged in a well-structured activity plan combining theoretical lectures, practical sessions, and study visits.

Ailton Tavares emphasized the balance between theory and practice, which allowed for the consolidation of concepts in real-world contexts. “The visits to photovoltaic facilities, both at the university and at the Prapretno solar power plant, were particularly enriching, providing direct contact with technologies developed by the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana,” he stated.

Henrique Fava Rica highlighted the impact of sessions on solar cells, module recycling, and the manufacturing and testing laboratories for photovoltaic cells. “It was an enriching experience that provided a clear vision of the crucial role of renewable energies in the global energy transition,” he noted.

Jeremias dos Santos, also from the University of Évora, shared his perspective on the experience: “I had the privilege of participating in the PV & EC Winter School, held in Slovenia as part of a Blended Intensive Programme during the Mobility Week. It was a truly inspiring and enriching experience, providing a perfect balance between theory, practice, and field exploration. Every moment was a valuable opportunity for learning and growth, making this experience unforgettable.

Participating in the PV & EC Winter School was transformative. Throughout this intense and captivating week, I was able to expand my knowledge, discover new perspectives, and interact with specialists and enthusiastic colleagues in the photovoltaic energy sector. I leave this experience with immense gratitude and motivation to continue exploring this fascinating field.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have attended the PV & EC Winter School. It was an extremely valuable experience that not only expanded my technical skills but also allowed me to connect with inspiring professionals and researchers. The synergy between theoretical classes, practical activities, and study visits made this week a unique and unforgettable experience.”

Helena Oliveira reflected on her participation: “The PV&EC Winter School was a remarkable experience that allowed me to deepen my knowledge in photovoltaic energy. The high-quality lectures, particularly those by Prof. Dr. Marko Topič, and the visit to the Prapretno solar power plant, the largest in Slovenia, were highlights of the week. The event not only enhanced my technical understanding but also provided a platform to connect with international peers and experts in the field.”

Joana Correia, shared her thoughts: “During the five days of the PV&EC Winter School, I not only deepened but also learned new concepts in photovoltaic energy through lectures organized by specialized professionals, including Prof. Dr. Mark Topič. This week was invaluable for the opportunity to interact with new colleagues and experts in my academic field. Visiting the university’s laboratories, its photovoltaic installations, and one of the largest photovoltaic plants in Slovenia, in Prapretno, was an incredible experience.”

All of them praised the high quality of the content and the expertise of the lecturers, considering the experience fundamental for deepening their knowledge in the field of photovoltaic energy and energy communities.

The event also welcomed students from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, fostering the exchange of knowledge and experiences among young researchers in the energy field.

This initiative took place within the scope of the AURORA project.